Police in DuBois are actively searching for Richard William Smeal, a 59-year-old white male, in connection with a severe assault on a Burger King” data-wpil-keyword-link=”linked”>Burger King employee. The incident occurred around 1 a.m. on Tuesday, June 11, in the parking lot of Burger King on Bee Line Highway. Sandy Township Police responded to the scene where they found a female employee who had been attacked by the suspect using closed fists and what seemed to be an AR-style weapon, later identified as a possible airsoft gun.
According to the police report, the suspect, wearing a black mask with a skull teeth design, approached the victim as she was getting into her vehicle. He demanded her purse, which contained the night deposit from the restaurant. The victim resisted, leading to a struggle during which she was severely injured. The suspect fled the scene when another vehicle arrived in the parking lot, leaving behind the night deposit.
The accomplice, identified as John Lentz, 53, of Penfield, was apprehended at his residence on Tuesday morning. Lentz faces multiple charges, including robbery and fleeing law enforcement.
A felony arrest warrant has been issued for Richard William Smeal, who is described as approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighing around 145 pounds, with blue eyes, a red/gray beard, and possibly longer red/brown hair. Charges against Smeal are pending, including robbery, assault, terroristic threats, and receiving stolen property.
Authorities consider Smeal to be dangerous and advise the public not to approach him. Anyone with information on Smeal’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Sandy Township Police Department through Clearfield County Dispatch at 814-765-1533 or 911.